Black Bear - Wildlife

Appearance

Black bears (Ursus americanus) are 5 to 6 feet long (nose to
rump), typically stand 2.5 to 3 feet at the shoulder, and weigh 100 to
400 lbs. Body color ranges from dark brown to black with a light brown or
tan muzzle.

Behavior

Black bears generally pose little threat to humans, their property or
pets. Black bears are naturally shy animals and not known for aggressive
behavior. Black bear sightings in Fairfax County are not common.

Black bears are primarily active at dusk and dawn. Black bears in urban
areas become primarily active at night.

Black bears breed in June or July and females breed only every other
year. “Delayed implantation” occurs and female bears do not become
pregnant until November or December. Gestation is 7 to 8 weeks.

Black bears establish dens in large hollow trees, brush piles, or
upturned tree roots. Black bears hibernate early November through March
or April, depending on food availability. Young bears become independent
the following spring.